Rainbow River Dive Recommendation

[For Those We Lead]

Hey guys,

I've recently been looking into doing a drift dive on the Rainbow River but I have trouble finding a reliable business for the dive and gear rental (BC, reg, tank, wet suit). I called several different places today but they kept pointing me in another direction since I said I was a solo diver. Can any of you offer recommendations? Thanks

 

[Captain Bil]

As far as rental gear, Bird's Underwater should have you covered. You should be able to catch a ride up river with the State Park (don't remember the name) near Crystal River. Not sure about private charters.

This would be a great kayak dive. Paddle upstream, gear up, and tow the yak back down. No need for a charter. And I believe Bird's has Kayaks for rent.

Sent from my XT907 using Tapatalk 2

 

[diver_dj]

I did it with American Pro a couple of years ago. It's a fantastic night dive.

 

[For Those We Lead]

Thank you for the suggestions. I called American Pro and they said solo diver was not a problem. I will most likely be diving with them next week when other divers make their reservations.

 

[Splash-X]

I've used American Pro Dive Center both for Rainbow River as well as snorkeling with the Manatees, very happy with their services! Just an FYI, you can rent a kayak from KP Hole state park and paddle up the river and drift dive back down without needing a boat ride if you really wanted. If this is your first time there, doing it with a dive shop where they take you up the river and give you some information about spring and put you in the deep hole or a bit further up to what they term the "dock" may be a good idea, that way if you decide to come back (with or without the dive boat) you'll know where you're going

 

[For Those We Lead]

This may be a stupid question, but what do you do with the kayak once you start drift diving back down the river?

 

[Splash-X]

You keep it tethered to you. You are required by law to tow a dive flag! Some people mount the flag to the kayak and others create a leash/lead and hook the reel to the kayak and then the leash/lead to the dive flag.